2026 Competition & Activities
Art, Craft, Cookery, Flowers & Photography
The 2026 Ballarat Show proudly celebrates the artistry of our community across a dazzling array of categories.
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Haymes Paint 49th Annual Painting Exhibition
Whether you’re an emerging artist or an experienced painter, we’d love to see your work on the walls of the 2026 Ballarat Show.
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Beef & Dairy Cattle
Step into the heart of rural pride and tradition at the 2026 Ballarat Show’s Cattle Competition!
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Dairy Goat
Get ready for a delightful showcase of charm, skill, and country pride at the Dairy Goat Competition! These clever and charismatic animals take centre stage as breeders and handlers present their finest.
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Poultry
Feathers will fly, in the friendliest way possible at the Poultry Competition, one of the most vibrant and beloved features of the Ballarat Show!
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Sheep
Woolly wonders take centre stage at the Sheep Competition, one of the most iconic and time-honoured events of the Ballarat Show!
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Junior Show Ambassador Award
Open to ambassadors aged between 16 and 19 years on the day of the 2026 Ballarat Show.
Are you ready to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and be part of something bigger? The Junior Show Ambassador Program is designed for young people who are passionate about their local community, agriculture, and the future of country shows.
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Rural Ambassador Award
Open to ambassadors aged between 20 and under 30 years as of the 1st of May 2027.
Do you have a passion for agriculture, leadership, and promoting rural Victoria? The Rural Ambassador Award Program is an outstanding opportunity for young adults to showcase their skills, expand their networks, and become advocates for the agricultural show movement.
Entries Close 30 October 2026
Pie Eating Competition
Get ready for a delicious showdown! Watch contestants go head-to-head in the Show’s famous Pie Eating Competition – it’s messy, fast, and full of fun.
Friday
More details coming soon
Colouring Competition
Grab your paint, pencils, crayons, or Texta’s and bring your masterpiece to life! We can’t wait to see your colourful creations!
Entries Close 11 November 2026
Dachshund Dash
Wiggle, wag, and watch the dash! The Dachshund Dash is back - don’t miss the tiny paws racing to the finish line.
Saturday
More details coming soon
Show Dog Jump
Ready to put your furry friend's agility and spirit to the test? Whether your pup is a tiny bundle of energy or a majestic large companion, every dog is invited to jump into the excitement and showcase their jumping skills at the 2025 Ballarat Show!
Sunday
More details coming soon
Wood Chop Competition
Competitors display incredible strength and skill in a series of woodchopping events – a timber-rific spectacle you won’t want to miss!
Competition and displays will take place every day of the show!
Details coming soon
Competition Information Contact
David Coffey 0448 671 483
Sheaf Toss
Test your strength and aim for the skies at the Sheaf Toss – a true Show favourite.
Details coming soon
Competition Information Contact
Leo Murphy 5334 7210
Tug of War
Come with your team or register on the day. Winning team from each section will get $150 cash and McDonalds Vouchers!